I am not a new “newbie,” but my perspective on RV etiquette is shifting. In 1999, I purchased a 26’ Winnebago Brave with the express purpose of traveling back and forth from California, where I had a home, to Kansas, where I was attending veterinary school. I never used the Winnie for recreational travel, but enjoyed using it when I needed to.
When I began traveling in the Winnie, I quickly learned the basic rules of etiquette when driving and when staying in RV parks: Turn your generator off when getting to camp. Be friendly and respectful of your neighbors and the condition of the campground. My dogs were on leash and I was very careful to clean up when they did their business. No loud parties (if you knew me, this was not a difficult rule to follow). Leave your site clean and litter-free. I routinely flashed lights for the truckers and other RVers when it was safe to change lanes. I got the same courtesy.
RVers are helpful and friendly
The first night on the road in Flagstaff, my neighbors helped us hook up the sewer, water and electricity. What I learned that night was that RVers are incredibly helpful and friendly and that people will go out of their way to help you.
This lesson held true for the next 20 years.
Fast forward to 2021. The Winnie died a peaceful death so it was no longer available for travel. So, as most of you know, I recently purchased a used 39’ Newmar toy hauler to move my large clowder of felines to California. Retirement was upon me and I had planned for many years to purchase another RV. I loved my time in the Winnie and enjoyed meeting fellow RVers. However, this time, I wanted to use the RV not only for moving but for recreational travel with my cats. I went about purchasing the Newmar entirely the wrong way. You can share my pain and get a modicum of amusement by reading the series in past RVTravel.com articles: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4.
California dreamin’; California etiquette
The cats and I made it to California despite the stress and travails of a not-so-perfect RV. We have been living for the past few months in a lovely RV park in Palm Desert. It is quite busy this time of year because of the influx of Snowbirds and, based on the number of California license plates, recreational campers.
While living here, I have made some observations about what has changed (or not) about RVing and RVers. I know much has been written about this, so this is just my two cents.
My faith in the faithful RVers is not shaken. I have met some wonderful people who have helped me and have shared their RV tips and woes. It reinforces my love for this community.
However, there is a clear “new” vibe. The number of brand-new luxury Class As and fifth-wheels is quite apparent. There are new shiny trucks, too. Good for the RV park but good for us, too? I hope so. I think the growing popularity of RVing will help in the long run. The influx from new RVers during the pandemic will settle down. But there will remain “new” converts who, I hope, will learn from their “elders”—not old, per se, but experienced.
There is a lot of work to be done.
Etiquette to be learned
The most apparent thing I noticed is people walking through occupied sites. I was taught this is very rude. How do you teach the newbies this? If one is outside enjoying the weather, politely pointing out the breach of etiquette is, of course, the thing to do. However, I admit a bit of apprehension about this. Anger in our society today is spilling into the RV community and one risks suffering the onslaught of a diatribe if an attempt is made.
Tony Barthel wrote here about the RV lights left on all night. I turn my patio lights off at 9:00 p.m. to respect my neighbors’ quality of sleep. Most RVs have blackout shades, but I still think it polite to kill the lights. The LED lights are burning bright all around me and all night long, so my sense of politeness is not shared by many others.
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There are so many dogs at the park
With very few exceptions, they are on leashes and their owners are being respectful of the rules. However, I have seen a few dogs loose and when I warned one RVer that their dog was loose, I got a dirty look and a dismissive hand gesture. Not cool. The park has dog parks, so loose dogs are a gross flaunting of the rules. Here is Gail Marsh’s post on dos and don’ts regarding dog park etiquette.
The same applies to children: unsupervised children running through campsites, riding bikes on grass and generally not being careful on the roads filled with huge motor vehicles. This is especially scary at night. My sister almost hit a kid riding with his dad between sites and into the road with oncoming traffic. It shook up my sister (in a tiny Honda fit) quite a bit. This is a wonderful setting for children to play, but parents must supervise and make sure they are safe and respectful of their neighbors.
I had a conversation with my sister about the etiquette in the park. I opined that the influx of new RV owners could be to blame for bad behavior and that over time they will learn. My sister thought it was a symptom of the overall increase in anger, intolerance, and rudeness in society. She attributes a lot to a dangerous sense of entitlement, but I hope she is wrong.
I will be moving into my house soon but hitting the road again this spring. I will look forward to meeting new people and sharing this wonderful life of RVing.
##RVT1036
I deal with the “public” 7 days a week. Your sister’s view point is what I see and why. My family ran a retail business for 103 years and this was a major factor on why we sold the business. So wrong and unnecessary for all of us to get along with each other.
It saddens me to agree with your sister. We now live in an entitled society, where common courtesy is no longer common. This is not a criticism of newbie RV’ers or even younger people than myself; I find it everywhere. Sad actually.
Todays younger generation is over compensated, under educated (especially in manners) and completely entitled.
Who’s fault is that?
Their parents! Most of problems with children today is a direct result of their parents being raised “according to Dr Spock”. When discipline was replaced by parents wanting to “friends” with their children the child never learned how to become an adult with adult responsibilities. Now we are over run with people who never learned proper etiquette.
Totally agree with Bob P. Parenting is not a “one and done” scenario. It’s an incredible responsibility and the most important job in the world.
I totally agree !
Totally agree… i see ever fewer “parents” in daily interactions.
Parenting is endless WORK but not complicated. Rewards and consequences AS EARNED, until effective. “Natural law” simply pays or charges based on their choice… healthy food, warm bed, safety are sacred but desseer/fun/phone/games/toys smoothly appear or not depending on whether my boys are little animals or gentlemen. IF/WHEN/UNTIL are not dirty words, the rest is follow-through.
So in this context, no they can’t ride their bikes if they cut your site. Yes if they return on time. Shame if I brought the bikes for nothing. No they can’t throw a ball into your RV, yes they can ask the neighbor to join them at the field. Extra late bedtime for helping the neighbor set up. I don’t have to scream at them, its all quietly enforcing good conduct.
I seem to remember my parents’ generation saying the same thing. 🙂
And probably their parents’ generation as well!
Said every older person about every younger generation since the dawn of civilization. Surely, your superior education and humble demeanor have led you to consider this on a deeper level than that.
Sadly, I think I agree with your sister. Perhaps when people are checking in to campgrounds, if they were verbally reminded NOT to cut thru occupied campsites, it might help. Putting it in writing on the paperwork won’t work if not read. Nothing irritates me more than adults cutting thru my site. Children I can admonish and teach, but it is chancey these days saying such to offending adults.
Your sister is 110% right. Luckily, the rude entitled people are in the minority, so I try to forget them and remember the good ones.
After dealing with paying top dollar for a nice place, and then putting up with all the above and more over and over (since covid, it has gotten worse) I purchased an acre in mtns. Of N.C. had it prepped for my camper. Am currently looking for a lot 30 to 45 mins. From ocean in fl. To do the same. The best of both worlds, can invite friends, can share the experience with them, without all the riff raff.
that is a great idea! we have checked out some campgrounds and I’m not a fan of those who have what appears to be permanent residents who clutter up their site with tons of stuff. i hadn’t thought about buying a lot just for us to use. are you running into zoning issues in Florida? wonder if there would be a market for poolng resources like people who group together to lease land for hunting. maybe buy the property and let people apply and pay for use of said land and its improvements for camping, . with rules and consequences…
Go to lotflip and land flip. Look for property with no restrictions. I am toying with 1 acre and possibly putting in 2 to 3 extra spaces with hookups. Put in keycode gate, dumpster near entrance and thats it. Have started looking into water/sewer tap fees vs septic wells. So I can decide where to purchase. If municipalities consider you commercial, tap fees go up considerably. I have my fav. Locations i am looking at, but florida has many great locals where lots are still reasonable.
Totally agree with all you said, it’s getting worse all the time, unfortunately I feel like your sister, it’s the sense of entitlement these days.
What campground are you staying in Palm Desert CA? I owned a home in Palm Desert Greens Country Club along Country Club between Monterey and Portola. Sold it several years ago and relocated to TN. Planning on RVing back to Palm Desert CA next winter. Would appreciate your thoughts on the park your staying in, name, location. Is it the one on Frank Sinatra ?
Both our kids moved to Palm Desert in 2020 so we have stayed at Emerald Desert on Frank Sinatra Dr. several times. Very, very nice, but a little pricey for what we need (basically a place to sleep). One of their three dog parks was a huge ponding basin-type place and our big runner LOVED it. Unfortunately, it was taken out the last time we were there.
I don’t have a dog but many people walk their dogs on the roads and I have seen them go to the dog park nearby. It’s very dog friendly.
Hi. My sister lives in Palm Desert Greens! I am staying at Emerald Desert RV Park on Frank Sinatra. If you book high-season in advance, it is not excruciatingly expensive. If you book last minute, it’s very pricey. I booked very early at a reasonable rate and then had to extend into January – whoo!!! Mucho bucks. It is close to my sister so it has been good (sans car for quite awhile).
Good sites. I am staying in the lower-priced lot area but they are fine. There are more spacious, more private lots available. Very few season-long campers and more shorter stays, so more noise and commotion. I’ve enjoyed it here and would book again.
So sad and so true. Have to agree with your sister. People these days feel “entitled “. It’s actually being taught to them in our schools. Very sad!
It depends where you go. If you’re in a crowded park designed for Class As who are paying a fortune to be there, and there’s 25 rules, but not enough ‘elbow room’, that’s kind of a breeding ground for entitled behavior. I never walk through occupied sites and gave a recent trespasser a cold stare, but it’s not worth a fight.
But I also didn’t design campground loops which force some of the campers to have to hike a roundabout path for 1/2 mile to reach a bathroom or the office.
We are starting to see the human cost of making sites too small for the families occupying them, to maximize profits.
We have been full time RVers for about a year now, but have had an RV for about 5 years. We have met some wonderful people while full time, with very few negative experiences. Thinking back I can only think of one negative, it was a consistently barking German shepherd. When my wife said something to the owner, she said he was supposed to bark as it was a dog. The owner would hit the dog with a water bottle while telling it to shut up. I went over to pet the dog one time and I think he just wanted companionship as he was so happy to have someone pay attention to him. We have two rescues, one a Siberia husky and another a husky mix. We take care of them, walk them on a leash and clean up after them. All that said, I think 99% of RV folks are respectful and helpful.
Paraphrasing Orwell’s “Animal Farm” in the context of RV Park communities: some residents are more equal than others. If you rent a space in a ownership park, you’ll encounter less than helpful and sometimes nasty neighbors who believe renters don’t belong in “their” park. If you buy a lot in a Homeowner Association managed RV park, there will be more quid pro quos than at a Roman swap meet. Entrenched Board members get favors from individuals who may find ways to harass, menace, vandalize and intimidate other residents. This isn’t true of all communities, but take time to become familiar with the “Governing Documents.” HOAs exist solely for the purpose of enforcing rules intended to benefit all residents, not just the entitled few.
While I agree with the sister’s comments, I also believe that campground management, or lack thereof, is having an impact.
Some campground owners are very good about covering some basic courtesy items upon arrival and in the “flyer” they hand out, but more than that they are very visible making the rounds and reminding any campers pushing the rules of their responsibilities while using the park. Usually I find that these campgrounds don’t have nearly as many etiquette issues as campgrounds where the owners/managers “disconnect” as soon as one finishes registration and walks out the door.
Amen. The good manners have vanished, gone to the same place all those friendly hosts, clerks, and rangers went.
Who the heck expects perfect behavior from literally hundreds of campers, when there is literally no one keeping an eye on things? Yesterday I stopped to check in to a ‘resort’ with 800 sites, unmanned at 3 p.m. except for 1 security guard who apparently is expected to park people and who knows what else. No thanks. Left, went to a place run in a professional manner.
I tend to use solar lights outside, the pumpkins or the flamingoes, if there is an awning, a Luci light. A full moon is always a blessing. Some folks are afraid of the dark and light up their campsite. There are dogs everywhere, I sprinkle pepper around the base of trees in my site, and cover the electrical post with a black plastic bag. I stay friendly with the volunteers and well as the work campers, and they drop by when they can.
I have seen what you are seeing and I agree with your sister, the overall lack of civility in almost everything these days is a problem but even worse is the sense of entitlement to do as you please without concern for others is at an all time high in the country and it is seeping into the RVing community.
I understand in certain campgrounds where there is a lot more recreational weekend stays you’re going to have issues with people really not understanding the rules and it would be nice if they read the campground rules but many see it as just the “fine print” and don’t bother.
However, now you see it everywhere and it isn’t always just newbies but this influx of RVers brings with it the same people that are rude no matter where they are, and don’t feel the rules apply to them. Another area is theft. It happened in one state campground so we have determined we have to stay in gate guarded resorts. It’s sad but we’re hopeful this will die down after the rush is over.
To me, a light left on, children making noise playing, using chalk on the pavement, or someone cutting through my site to save walking halfway around the campground to go shower is what I consider minor, if not normal human behavior.
What bothers me are those people that have a low tolerance for minor infractions and feel they have to be the campground enforcer with an in-your-face type attitude.
I’m not a young newbie camper, I’m 84.
I agree with you for the most part – over policing intolerance can be worse than the infractions. However, I wonder if there is a gentle way to let the newbies, who are unaware, of the rules of etiquette and why they have stood for a very long time. I struggle with the balance. Grumpy busy bodies are certainly an unpleasant solution.
The ones that get me are the people who come in late and make massive noise trying to park in the dark. Or they don’t know how to park and knock on my door to move my truck out of my site so they can use my space.
I’m full time and work from home so both these disruptions are costly. Use to be common courtesy to park before dark but also it’s safer to park before dark. I have had to park after dark and in those emergency cases I get a pull through for the night, close my doors quietly and only hookup electric. I won’t even lower my jacks.
I would never knock on someone’s door to have them move out of their spot for me. That is truly mind blowing. If it’s too tight to park then practice more or go to the office and say you don’t fit. This has only been a thing since the newbie pandemic wave. Seriously mind blowing.
I would much rather someone ask me to move my vehicle, than hit it while trying to park their big rig.
thats why they make lawyers.
We usually boondock, one night stands at local racetracks. So we have the set up/tear down perfected. One night we pulled into a real campground about 12:30 am. We backed in, hooked up, set up awning and chairs, walked the dogs then went to bed. I was up early with the dogs when the man camped next to us came out. He said “When did you pull in” and “I didn’t hear a thing” You don’t have to make a lot of noise; you just have to be efficient.
I’m new to the rv thing and recently doing it full time in a just shy of 24′ travel trailer. Have been parked at a great new resort for a bit over a month now, probably a bit pricey for a spot to park however it’s an extended pull through. Hey, it’s half the cost of my prior mortgage so I’m good with it. Hearing a lot of folks packing up around sundown, wth, really? Close up shop when it’s getting dark out, not understanding that, whatever. What I mean by hearing, power tools to raise jacks and hammering on whatever they are removing, a wtf moment runs through my head. In getting to the clubhouse there may be one or two vacant spots along the way, I stay on the road regardless rather than cutting through those spots. Mind you, the entire resort is a concrete pad with grassy areas between sites, gated, on site patrol, clubhouse, laundry, gym, pool and beer garden with a fire pit area, on site propane exchange too. Only thing missing is a grocery store…
I think the big problem is, is that many of these RV glampers have never camped in a tent before, and never learned the basics of camp etiquette as a kid.
They buy these really expensive RVs with all the bells and whistles and, thus, think they are entitled to use them all, when ever and however they like – to the detriment of their neighbours.
As one poster suggested, the way to address it, is to have someone give a short intro, provide the rules in paper, and do regular walk abouts.
I full-timed with someone for a few years in nice, new Class A. He’d never spent a night in a tent or an RV before. I never had to point out basic campground etiquette. I attributed that to his being a decent human, which I’d argue is far more rare than the number of folks who’ve seen the inside of a tent these days.
Hi ! Rudy here and I did RV ing in my 2500 Chevy 3/4 ton with self contained camper. Truck broke down with 200000 miles and I’m breaking down at 81. But boy what a ride.
Went to Burning man , fun fun fun and Amazing . Oh my what I was a part of.
Then on the beach in Westport Washington for 3 summers . Found stones and beach glass , crabs and salmon, razor clams ,oysters. And winter! Och. but then Quartzite Arizona in winter , joined rock club, senior club, gold mine, BLM camp.
People I met from Penmsylvania, Chicago, Minnesota farmer who hadn’t left the farm sence he was 14 and now 75. Some passed, some were sick but not ready to pass.
Mexico from Quartzsite is but 70 miles and open air restaurant with Margarita, chillereallo, taco de Cerones, Musical groups every where. Camp for FREE next to to American canal,
If I turn up the radio in my car too loud, I can be ticketed for noise ordinance violation. But when I am in my RV, apparently there are no real “rules.” Just suggestions. That is why we have what we have — ” because I can!” On private property, there is no real way to enforce those suggestions. In a national/state/local park, if it violates any public property law then it can be enforced (doesn’t mean it will be since rangers have their hands full already).
We live in an RV park in Anaheim Hills and I have to say…your sister’s take is correct. These people who are flouting rules and being rude are completely entitled. They come here from nearby communities (you can tell by their license plate frames where they bought their vehicles and its not far away) and turn their kids and animals loose while they party with friends and flout pandemic and park rules. I’ve even seen gatherings of 3 percenters and others flying gadsden flags in the wake of Jan 6. They are pretty ruthless in their rudness these groups.
It’s very sad to see because originally we’d found RVers both full time and recreational to be the nicest folks. Now we view each new rig coming in to spaces near us with great caution and wariness.
For walk-thru folks, engage them in a conversation. Ask LOTS of questions. They are most probably on their way to some place and in a hurry so delaying them will “encourage” them to walk somewhere else instead of through your site. Might as well have fun with them.
Excellent suggestion.
Even better, ask them to join your obscure and obnoxious religion or political group.
I’m sure CFerguson wasn’t referring to “your” group, Pam. Just referring to the campsite resident asking the trespasser to join the resident’s group. Yep, I think that would deter them from trespassing through a campsite again. 🙂 –Diane
I disagree unless you are speaking of the “educational experience” they get at home. Public schools have never been designed as a substitute for family nurturing.
We tent camp and now have a Quick Silver livin light tent camper at campgrounds (not RV parks). Neither has blackout curtains, and leaving the lights, even LED string lights on makes it almost impossible to get to sleep. It’s inconsiderate and rude.
Suggest you get a sleep mask. It helps. I use one all the time.
I am posting for the first time on this site. I have been reading the very helpful articles and opinions for three years and I felt it was finally time to comment. You see I am one of the “newbies”. I have a “shiny new truck” and a brand new fifth wheel. I also have two dogs. I am a “glamper” as you call us.
I began RV’ing last summer and I have met many wonderful people. However, I find a different type of experience than the one you describe. “I notice you must be new to this. I hope you follow the rules better than the way you back up.” This is typical of comments we here. We have heard comments from long time RVers at every park we have been too. Most, before we even get a chance to set up.
I would never walked through another persons site, not pick up after my dog, or keep my lights on after curfew. Please don’t judge all “newbies” in the same light. Character faults are what lead to the issues you are all describing, not “shiny” trucks or fancy new fifth wheels.
I hope the positive comments outweigh the rude ones and that you continue to have wonderful experiences camping. Rude people are just that: rude. There is no excuse in my opinion. There are grumpy people everywhere. I made the observation about the new RVs and trucks only to illustrate the increasing popularity of RVing, not to judge. As I learned from my “elders”, I am sure others will too. I am optimistic about our RVing community and your respectful attitude is a reason why. Welcome!
Thank you for your kind reply. Also, thank you for listening. Just look at some of the comments below and you will further see my point. Apparently driving a new RV with lots of bells and whistles makes me entitled. You see I think we have to be careful how we make our points. I agree with you that rude is rude and in my opinion, it goes both ways. I want to respect the knowledge of the experienced RVer, I just want that same respect in return.
Hey, come park next to me. I will offer all the help you need if you ask or it is obvious i can relieve your pain. If you don’t want it, that’s ok. But you are welcome to help me drink some beer if you like and we can talk about anything except politics as that a great way to make an enemy. If you want a fully loaded unit, that is good with me. I know people with the same taste, we have a small unit that is enough to keep us out of the weather and comfy, all we need. Oh, the guy who criticizes the way you backup is short on memory and does not deserve your time. I hope you continue to meet some great RV’ers. Good travels.
Man, people and their “holier than thou” comments! I’ve backed a variety of campers into a variety of sites in my 67 years, but never would I criticize someone for their attempt(s). If they’re having major trouble I might lend some friendly advice. I have even been asked if I would do it for them. We’ve all been in their shoes but seem to forget that.
We have been camping and RVing (tent, pop-up, travel trailer, now 5th wheel) and have a big, shiny new truck so I don’t take the description as an insult but I do agree that – aside from the trappings – new RVers in a large majority seem to gravitate to the expensive full amenity RV park and when they do end up in a campground with natural barriers or just lots of space, they don’t really seem to understand you don’t walk along someone’s RV to make a shortcut.
“They” is just generally referring to the people who don’t pay attention to common etiquette. It isn’t referring to everyone. If you don’t do those things, then it isn’t about you
But so many things have changed with the way people act while camping that it’s easy to assume most are because of the new wave of campers/RVers.
I do hope it changes and people can get back to the task of camping as an enjoyable lifestyle.
Well written and tactful article. Common courtesy, personal responsibility, and respect begin at home long before one owns an RV. If it didn’t happen then, it’s not likely to become ingrained easily into a person of “adult” age, even if not of “adult” maturity, simply because they begin to RV. Clearly the author is of the former type rather than the latter. She started out right and polished her demeanor with the advice of others who had these desirable characteristics of society. Sometimes military service can instill these qualities if families haven’t but, being a combat veteran, I can say that sometimes military service also increases negative behavior. Having also been a law enforcement officer, I know too well how many warped psychological and behavior profiles there are. So, at age 74, my best friend of 54 years and I will continue to meet wonderful people while RV’ing and deal with those who aren’t so wonderful in the best way we can within God’s and man’s laws.
IMHO, inflation is the root of all evil when it comes to lack of manners. Years ago when inflation caused both parents to have to work to support their families and some had to work 2 jobs, the raising of children fell to TV and video games if one of the children was old enough to “supervise” their siblings. No adult guidance was really given, mom and dad come home tired and uptight about their daily experiences at work so children didn’t get the nurturing and guidance necessary to make them responsible adults, now they are raising their children the way they were raised and even less manners are being taught. I’m glad I’m old enough to have been raised by parents who were able to properly raise kids. I followed in their footsteps and raised my children like I was raised, my children tried to raise theirs like they were raised but influence from other children has made a difference. Now my great grandchildren are coming under the influence of what I spoke of earlier. Just my opinion.
All very spot on. No manners being taught = no respect for anything or anybody. Fast forward a couple of generations and all that you mention is true. Each over lapping generation continues to be a little worse. It won’t end because they don’t know that anything is wrong with their actions.
I agree that manners need to be taught. I disagree that working parents are at fault. As a working Mom, I taught our daughter the value of manners, common sense and a good word ethic. It isn’t the amount of time spent but the quality of time and attention. So many parents think campgrounds are big babysitters and turn there kids loose — and grandparents do the same.
It is the change of what is considered proper behavior that is changing the RV world. If I have to tell you what is proper, common courtesy do me a favor and stop at another RV park. You are NOT entitled to be a rude , obnoxious JERK.
I think many campers aren’t even aware they walk through your site. We had someone in a site to the rear of ours who was doing this. To discourage him we put my chairs across our site- mostly blocking the route through. We were sitting out there and the guy comes through- having to turn sideways and scooching between me and the rig. There’s a clear paved path not even 30′ from our site to use. I’ve experienced other behavior like this too. Not knowing how people are- I hesitate saying anything to them- my fault I guess but I value my safety. I try to ignore it but when people actually turn to look in your windows- it’s amazing. I think you have to have parents who teach you these things early but those people don’t exist anymore.
Articles like this and the comments may go a long way to educating the new folks to Rv’ing. Like anything else – there is a learning curve and time needed – so discussion and opinions by us “Elders” can certainly enlighten. Now we just need to get everyone to read the articles! (Like the old saying – “you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him/her drink.” )
I was camping at Four Mile Creek State park in NY. My site and the sites around me were lake front on Lake Ontario, but had some trees / brush in front of the lake. I was surprised to see people cut across our sites. My neighbors site had a good view. One guy walked over on her site to take pictures. Boy did she tell them about staying off her campsite. I guess she paid $500. for two weeks for the site. I also notice at two campground, campers had their dogs untied. It was just a couple. I always keep mine leashed.
The things you describe in your article and that I read in the comments are the reasons I don’t stay in state parks in the summer, or in parks with swimming pools and playgrounds any time of year. I also use apps like Campendium and read the reviews carefully. If someone complains that rules are not enforced, I don’t camp there.
I agree, in respect to the rules not being adhered to. All the rules, regulations and laws are of no use if they are not enforced. Watching park employees drive by violator’s all times of the day and night, and doing nothing about it is so discouraging.
When discussing this subject over and over everyone seems to forget the new attitude of people today.
IT’S ALL ABOUT ME!
Dear Karel,
I hate to tell you but I think she is right! It is not just “newbie” RVers, it is everybody! They drive terribly, they’ll tell you off in a second if you even dare to point out any wrongdoings. My roommate and the main driver is always yelling at people (sometimes even rolling down the window to do so). This scares me something fierce because here in Texas ANYBODY can carry a gun! I’m afraid he’ll get him/me/us shot!!!
I’m 74 (and will be 75 in about 20 days) and I SEE the changes. I was NOT raised the way younger people seem to have been. I was raised to respect others (especially my elders) and their things!
I miss my good old days!
Agree. My wife pointed out that yelling at a driver or beeping the horn may get us both shot with the way some are, road rage. It carries over to RV parks and Sn B as well.
I was taking my St. Bernard out for one last walk of the evening around 9 p.m. and heard a kid screaming and yelling. He was about eight and had been riding his bike in the dark with no lights and had hit some gravel and went down. His knees, shins, elbows, and palms were pretty scraped up and he was in pain. I called the campground owner to find out where this kid belonged. He was screaming so much he couldn’t answer me. We found the parents. Asleep in their camper, all the lights out. They had gone to bed and left the kid outside. Their comment? Well, we left the door unlocked so he cold get back in. Wow!
I hope the campground owner asked them to.leave! No one needs to be around that type of stupid. Thank you for helping the child.
We had a problem of people cutting through our campsite at a busy campground near DC. No sense trying to talk with them as they didn’t all speak English. So I moved our tethered 2 year old mix breed dog further out. He is usually quiet but very protective of his “turf”. He doesn’t bite but the folks that got near him didn’t know that. He spoke a language they understood. They stopped coming through at least while we were outside.
Just got back from a 3 week 5500+ RV trip. All the campgrounds were great. Fellow campers very polite. It was spring break and many young families with children enjoying the same things we were. We did travel to reservation sites, thank goodness as all were full though some reservations sites were empty…(something needs to be done about that?) My only negative experience was at a laundromat in Utah. The attendant there started talking about how everyone under 50 is rude. I told her I disagreed as all my interactions with the under 50’s family & friends are very positive. Then she launched into schools. Public Schools are not teaching children to read, I stated my 5 grands who are in public schools are excellent readers. She then said that all public schools are teaching is CRT & communism. As a ex school board member I disagreed and then forced myself to not respond to the rest of her crazy talk.
Can’t wait to hug my under 50 kids, family & friends.
I appreciate your comments on fellow RVers and am also concerned by the ignorance displayed by those such as your laundry attendant.
But 5500 miles in 21 days equates to nearly 262 miles per day! That’s a minimum of 5 hours driving at average interstate speeds in a car! Hopefully you had great visits!
Jeez, I wonder how much of a coincidence it is that Facebook and other (anti)social media — with their emphasis on controversy, tribalism and entitlement — along with the decline in civility is also about twenty years old? Then there’s the spoiled, individualistic, “participation trophy”, easily offended mentality and indoctrination that has been so prevalent in the culture for the last couple of generations… Oh well, no civilization lasts forever but dies by devouring itself from the inside.
Thank you, Karel!
Today it seems everybody knows their rights, but too few know their responsibilities. We have been camping for many years. A lot of the behavior being talked about seems to occur when campgrounds are full. We try to avoid weekends and summer. If we go locally we go in on a Sunday when everyone is leaving and leave on a Thursday to avoid the weekend crowds. We also try to go in the fall and spring and if we are heading south we even go in the winter.That way we don’t have a lot of kids in the campground. Nothing against kids we took ours camping when they were young and later took our grand kids. Also, we tend to stay in federal or state campgrounds where the sites are spread out.